In our previous post, we highlighted Scotland’s far northern regions as one of Lonely Planet’s Best Destinations for 2024. Today, we take a look at another destination in the UK, one of the publication’s top ten in the sustainability category. Let’s go to Wales!
Wales earned kudos from Lonely Planet for its commitment to public transportation, in particular its ongoing upgrades to the railway system:
A rail revamp in Wales – one of the world’s first countries to legislate for sustainability – will expand the planet-friendly possibilities of exploring the nation’s wild, wonderful west.
Lonely Planet
The government is spending millions of pounds to add new trains, upgrade lines, update stations, and generally improve the passenger experience. In doing so, it is hoped that people will use public transportation more, thereby reducing the environmental effects of cars. Five new stations are also planned. Add in a planned high-speed link between Cardiff and London, due to being operation in 2025, and Wales will become more accessible than ever, even if you don’t drive.
Trains to Trails
So getting to and around Wales is set to be easier than ever. What can you do once you’re there? In the vein of sustainability, Wales is extending its 2023 Year of Trails into 2024.
Wales by Trails is Visit Wales’ themed year for 2023 and 2024 where visitors can find forgotten treasures, embrace journeys of the senses and make memories along pathways, around attractions, activities, landscapes and coastlines.
Visit Wales
British Food and Travel has posted about the many outdoor trails in Wales before. The Wales Coast Path offers 870 miles of stunning coastal scenery to explore and incorporates the Pembrokeshire National Park. Then there are the other national parks – Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and Eryri (Snowdonia). Each trail and park has its own distinct flavour.
But the Year of Trails highlights much more than walking or cycling. There are historical trails, literary trails, food trails…a trail to suit every interest. You might consider exploring:
- The North West Wales slate landscape. Wales’ newest UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrates the communities that produced one of the nation’s most valuable commodities in the 18th century.
- The footsteps of Dylan Thomas. From Swansea to Laugharne, learn more about the beloved Welsh poet and the surroundings that influenced him.
- The trail of King Arthur. The legendary king has connections to Cornwall, but also deep roots in Welsh folklore. See Camelot and other sites from the tales.
- The food and drink of the Cambrian Way. Gain sustenance while walking/ cycling / driving / riding by train with smoked meats, gin, wine, and other tasty delights.
Where will the trains and trails of Wales take you this year?
